Every time your pet leaves the house unvaccinated, it is at a high risk of contracting a serious and potentially fatal illness. It is recommended that you schedule at least one yearly veterinary appointment for your pet for both a check-up, and the chance to implement a vaccination program. This is because the necessity of vaccination against specific diseases is dependent on your pet’s age, medical history and lifestyle. At Railway Avenue Veterinary Hospital, we are the local vets Byford and Armadale dog and cat owners rely on for expert veterinary care and advice. Read on for more information regarding immunisations for your furry friend.
What Are the Different Types of Vaccines for Domestic Pets?
There are two categories of vaccines known as core and non-core vaccines.
Core Vaccines – are required by all cats and dogs no matter their age, habits, environment, breed or circumstances. Core vaccines help prevent your pets from contracting life-threatening diseases.
Non-Core Vaccines – are only administered depending on the environment in which the pet lives. This includes the geographical location, environment and lifestyle.
What Diseases Do We Vaccinate Against?
In Australia, we are lucky to be able to immunise our cats and dogs against many potentially dangerous diseases.
Dogs can receive vaccinations against:
- Distemper
- Hepatitis
- Parvovirus
- Canine Cough
Cats can be vaccinated to prevent:
- Feline Infectious Enteritis
- Cat Flu
- Cat Leukaemia
- Cat Aids Virus
How Often Should I Vaccinate My Pet?
While it is common practice in Australia to have your pet assessed and vaccinated on an annual basis, setting up a vaccine schedule with a trusted local Armadale vet will ensure your beloved companion will always be up-to-date with their immunisations. Some vaccines do have an efficacy of over a year, whilst others must be done annually for the best result. The waiting period between vaccines will depend on your pets age. If you have a puppy or a kitten, they could be vaccinated up to three times within six months, then annually after that. In most cases, core vaccinations are done every three years, and non-core vaccinations annually.
Given that each pet is unique it is essential that they are treated as such and taken to a trusted vet from a young age. This will ensure you have a clear vaccination schedule to follow which caters to your pet’s specific circumstances and requirements. Good, honest communication along with a proper vaccination program and annual check-ups will ensure a long, happy and healthy life for your pup or feline friend.
When Should I Start Vaccinating My Pet?
As mentioned above, if you have kittens or puppies, they may require multiple vaccines in their first few months. This usually starts at six to eight weeks old with the final of the first of three vaccines not given after sixteen weeks. This is highly important as the antibodies in the mother’s milk can interfere with the vaccinations.
Are There Any Known Side Effects or Possible Adverse Reactions?
As with human immunisations, there is always a risk of experiencing a mild side effect. These may include:
- weakness or tiredness
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- diarrhoea
While these can seem unsettling, they are usually temporary and do not cause any ongoing illnesses. The benefit of vaccination far outweighs any risk of possible side effects.
What If I Have Adopted a Pet and I Don’t Know Their Vaccination History?
In this situation there is a test that can be arranged at an affordable price, called a titre test. This tests for the amount of antibodies in your adult cat or dog, showing what they have or haven’t been vaccinated against to help create a future schedule. If adopting a pet, it is important to consult your vet for advice and begin regular check-ups to keep them a fit and healthy new member of your family.
Choose Railway Avenue Veterinary Hospital – Your Local Byford Vet Clinic
As the Armadale vet servicing Byford and surrounding suburbs, we want your pets to enjoy a long and healthy life, free from illness and disease. We understand your pet is an important member of your family so we recommend the best options to ensure they stay with you for as long as possible. For expert advice on pet vaccinations or any other general pet care needs, get in touch us today by calling (08) 9497 1547 or book and appointment online now.
